Museum worker denies theft and fraud charges

Mr Harris has denied all charges and will face trial in September 2027

An employee accused of stealing exhibits from Norfolk Museums Service and selling them through auctions has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Stephen Harris, 67, of Hunter Avenue, Mattishall, faces one charge of theft, four counts of fraud and a single charge of converting stolen property.

Mr Harris, who worked at the Gressenhall Museum near Dereham, appeared at King's Lynn Crown Court wearing a blue suit and red and white striped shirt. He faces trial in September 2027. Details of the exhibits were not mentioned in court.

Recorder Justin Rouse KC said: "I'm sorry its so far into the future, its obviously a worrying matter for you."

The judge, Recorder Justin Rouse, apologised for the delay in the courts process having listed the trial in two years' time

Charges listed in court alleged Mr Harris stole artefacts belonging to Norfolk Museums Service between 10 January and 4 August 2022.

The fraud charge related to allegations that between 26 June and 17 July 2020 he made false representation, claiming he was the lawful owner of three exhibits he offered for sale.

Three further counts of fraud relate to auction houses listed as Bonhams of London, Keys of Aylsham, near Norwich, and Lockdales in Martlesham near Ipswich.

The sixth charge alleged Mr Harris converted criminal property, knowing it to be proceeds of crime.

The court set out stages for the case to progress, but the trial, which is expected to last five days, will commence in almost two years time.

The judge added: "That's obviously a very unfortunate state of affairs.

"You've been on bail and you remain on bail but you must attend your trial.

"If you do not turn up you could be fined or imprisoned and the trial could go ahead without you."